Here is some info from today's press announcement from HTC for the Hong Kong release:

"HTC today announced the expansion of its product portfolio to include a groundbreaking computing device that focus on providing users with the definitive mobile computer experience. The HTC Shift brings a new era in mobile computing by combining the power of Windows Vista, Microsoft Origami Experience 2.0, HTC SnapVUE, 3.5G/HSDPA connectivity and always-connected push email into an innovative sliding keyboard design. The HTC Shift is the epitome of extraordinary form, and delivers unparalleled functionality in a sleek, compact design.

Microsoft Origami Experience 2.0 enables improved access and consumption of content through the addition of a new finger-friendly browser, RSS Reader and media player. It also includes Origami Now which gives users one-touch access to the information that's important to them, including e-mail, calendar, weather and to-do lists on one screen that changes according to the time, the day and even their current location.

The HTC Shift is HTC?s first device to feature the innovative new SnapVUE technology. SnapVUE provides instant access to emails, calendar, SMS messages and contacts without the need to fully boot up the device, helping to conserve power and extend battery life.

With onboard tri-band UMTS/HSDPA and quad-band GSM/GPRS/EDGE, the HTC Shift allows users to link up to any mobile network, and enjoy high-speed internet access anywhere. With Bluetooth 2.0 and Wi-Fi, HTC Shift is also a perfect companion with most PCs, notebooks and wireless LAN networks.

Weighing in at just 800g and equipped with a 7? touch sensitive ?slide-n-tilt? screen, the HTC Shift also hides a full QWERTY keyboard. With up to 2 days of battery life on standby, the HTC Shift is the new way to work efficiently and effectively on the move. (Subject to operation circumstances and settings)

Availability & Suggested retail price:

HTC Shift will be available starting from 20 March, 2008 and its suggested retail price is HKD 10,880.

Network:HSDPA/UMTS: worldwide UMTSTri-band 850/1900/2100MHzGSM/GPRS/EDGE: Quad-band 850/900/1800/1900MHzUp to 3.6Mbps for download and 384kbps for upload(The device will operate on frequencies available from the cellular network)